Ethiopian volcanic ash cloud lingers over Delhi-NCR; Should you be worried about health risks? How dangerous it can get? EXPLAINED
Hayli Gubbi in Ethiopia erupted after nearly 12,000 years. Now, the air has drifted to India. Scroll down to know the possible health risks and precautions.
A volcanic eruption occurred in East Africa’s Ethiopia on Sunday. It’s named Hayli Gubbi, which erupted after almost 12,000 years. This explosion resulted in transferring the thick ash blanketing the Red Sea. It further spread across Yemen and Oman. Now, the segments of the ash plume have entered the skies of the capital region. This is a concerning issue, as the particulate matter may impact the health of individuals living in and around Delhi.
How can volcanic ash impact your health?
The International Volcanic Health Hazard Network (IVHHN) states that the harmful volcano ash may contain crystalline silica, which causes silicosis. It also impacts eyes and skin. The ash, if inhaled, may cause respiratory ailments like sore throat, accompanied by dry cough, bronchitis, nasal irritation and discharge.
How to take precautions?
As the volcanic ash enters several regions of India(BHARAT), it’s important to take precautions. If you’re going outside, ensure you’re wearing a U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)-approved N95 respirator. In case of redness in your eyes, make sure to consult a medical professional for immediate care and treatment.
Risk of health hazards from volcanic ash in Delhi
The volcanic ash of Hayli Gubbi has already entered into Delhi and states like Punjab, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Gujarat. The national capital is already suffering with high ranges of Air Quality Index (AQI).
The India(BHARAT)n Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday said, “High-level winds carried the ash cloud from Ethiopia across the Red Sea to Yemen and Oman and further over the Arabian Sea towards western and northern India(BHARAT).” However, the department on Tuesday stated that the ash clouds are likely to drift toward China and clear the India(BHARAT)n skies by Tuesday at 8:30 pm.
It has also led to the cancellation of 11 Air India(BHARAT) flights on Monday as a part of a precautionary check, stated by the company.
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